LADY MORDAUNT 



OR, 



wsi jij$ among tfa jvl$Iw\ Jpil% 



A DRAMA, IN THREE ACTS. 



WY LILYS GJ- A. INT N" E T T , .Esq., 
ST. LOUIS, MO. 

WITH CAST OF CHARACTERS, STAGE BUSINESS, 
RELATIVE POSITIONS, &c. 



Entered according to act of Congress, in the year 1870, by Wyllts Gannett, Esq. , 

in the Clerk's Office of the District Court of the United States for the 

Eastern District of Missouri. 



ST. LOUIS : 

DAILY DISPATCH BOOK AND JOB OFFICE, 3 I 3 N. THIKD STREET. 

1870. 



LADY MORDAUNT; 



OR, 



A DRAMA, EST THREE ACTS. 



WYLLYS GANNETT, Esq., 
ST. LOUIS, MO. 

WITH CAST OF CHARACTERS, STAGE BUSINESS, 
RELATIVE POSITIONS, &c. 



Entere in?he Sf'S°n^ 0f ySFtPfi ^V™ 1 ™* by Wyllys Gannett, Esq., 

m the Clerk s Office of the District Court of the United States for the 

Eastern District of Missouri. 



ST. LOUIS : 

DAILY DISPATCH BOOK AND JOB OFFICE, 3 I 3 N. THIKD STREET. 
1870. 



CAST OF CHARACTERS. 

At DeBar's Opera House, 
) / \J\ * St. Louis, Mo., 1870. 

Sir Charles Mordaunt CD. Chaplin. 

Sir Bunsby Barrington „ Charlie Rogers. 

Sir Thomas Moncrieffe „ G. Fisher. 

His Royal Highness, Prince of Wales.. .H. Loomis. 

Lord Vincent Cole +... Harry Stone. 

Sir Frederick Johnstone W. Slocum. 

Captain Farquhar M. Curtis. 

Lord Penzance Ed. Mackway. 

Doctor Deane, Q. C H. B, Norman. 

• Sergeant B allantine L. M. McCormick. 

Doctor George Burrows F.J. Post. 

Court Crier J. Bankson.- 

William— Sir Charles' Valet „ J. Biekle. 

Messenger. W. Johnston. 

Lady Harriet Mordaunt Miss M. A. Pennoyer. 

Lady Louisa Moncrieffe Mrs. Sylvester Post. 

Mrs. Alice C adogan Miss Jennie Fisher. 

Jane Lang Miss Louise Sylvester. 

English Lords or Gentlemen — for Club Room Scene. 
Spectators for Court Scene. 
A Jury of Twelve. 

Costumes according to the present style of the day among the English 
Nobility. 

EELATIVE POSITIONS, EXITS, &c. 
R. 5 means Right; L., Left; R. H., Right Hand; L. H., Left 
Hand; C, Center; S. E., (or 2d E.J Second Entrance; TJ. E., 
Upper Entrance; M. D., Middle Door; F., the Flat; D. F., Door 
in Flat; R. C.', Right of Center; L. C, Left of Center. 
R. R. C. C. L. C. L. 

V The reader is supposed to be upon the Stage, facing the audience. 



LADY MORDAUNT; 

OR, 

Fast Life among the English Nobility. 



ACT I.— Scene I. 

Boom in Sir Chas. Mordaunt's house* Bell cord on wall. Enter 
Sir C, reading Utter, d. f. 

Alas! I am afraid this is but too true. [Stops thoughtfully. ] Too 
true, too true. This letter and its fellows which I have so latelj 
perused lead me to suspect that all is not as it should be withiu my 
house. [Starts from reverie.'] But I will summon Lady Mordaunt, 
and confront her with these written declarations, which burn into 
my heart like red-hot coals. [Pulls bell cord. Enter William, m, d.] 
Is Lady Mordaunt within her apartment 1 

William — She is, Sir Charles. 

Sir Charles— Inform her that I wish to see her. 

[ William bows, and off, m. d. 

Sir C. looks again at letter. Back to m. d. Enter Lady Mordaunt, 
m. d. She stands on threshold and gases for a moment at Sir C. 

Lady Mord. — Sir Charles. 

Sir Chas. [Turning slowly] — Lady Mordaunt. 

Lady Mord.— You sent for me. Are you ill or tired ? 

[Approaches as she speaks. 

Sir Chas.—Thed, Lady Mordaunt; indeed I am tired. Tired, I 
might say, of life. For what is life to me when filled with such 
sorrow as I am undergoing? Ah, such sorrow as he can only know 
who has experienced that greatest of all curses in the life of a mar- 
ried man — infidelity ! 

Lady M. — Sir Charles, I do not understand you. Remember, sir 
when an accusation is made, proofs are generally required to make 
those accusations good. [Speaks this coldly.'] 



4 LADif mordaitnt; OS 

Sir C. — Madam, I will produce what I consider most damning 
proof and evidence that she whom from her father's house I took, 
has proved anything but the priceless jewel which I claimed to pos- 
sess 

Lady M. [Face towed in hands, weeping] — Go on, sir. This is in- 
deed kind ! 

Sir C. [Handing letter to L. M.] — There, madam, peruse the con- 
tents of that scented page, and tell me then that you know nothing 
of it ! 

Lady M. [Takes letter, and, as she looks at it, trembles and lets it 
fall to the floor] — I cannot read it — I cannot read it. 

Sir C. [Coldly]— If the first of the series affects yon so wonder- 
fully Lady Mordaunf, I do not deem it necessary to produce the 
rest until the proper moment; and that moment, Lady Mordaunt, 
will be when to the public ear they will be proclaimed in open court. 

Lady M. [Throws herself at Sir C.'s feet] — Oh, Sir Charles; Sir 
Char ,es! spare me this shame; heaven knows I am punished enough 
without this public exposure. 

Sir C. — Arise, madam, this is folly. In the witness box if this can 
be proved false, then will I forgive and forget. 

Lady M. [Draws herself up haughtilg] — Yes, Sir Charles, this is 
folly. I will endeavur hereafter to show to you that one of the 
house of Moucrieffe can act otherwise than foolishly. True, I have 
had the name of being insane ; but my insanity may prove a bitter 
curse to my accusers. 

Sir C. [Calmly] — You may yet prove to the world that there is a 
virtue in insanity. 

[Enter William, M. D„ card waiter in hand; presents it to Sir 
Charles, who takes card, glauces at it.] 

Sis C. — Ah ! Sir Bunsby ! Admit him. 

[Exit William,. M. D. 

Sir C. — Lady Mordaunt, you need not remain unless you wish. 
Lady M.— I will retire. My company I know can be dispensed 
with. [Exit, E. D. 

[Enter William, bowing fback) to audience, Sir Bunsby following. 
When on stage, William bows, and off. Sir Charles advances as 
Sir B. enters.] 

Sir C. — Welcome, Barrington ; welcome. 

Sir B. — That's always the case. Hey, old boy! of course I'm 
welcome. If I thought to the contrary, egad, I would have stayed 
down to Cadogan's. I say, Mordannt, his wife makes the best corn 
cake in the country; and "such butter— it makes my mouth water. 
By the bye, where is Lady Mordaunt? I haven't seen her for an 
age. 

Sir C. [Confused]— She is not very well, Barrington; it would be 
better not to disturb her ; she needs rest. 



FAST LIFE AMONG THE ENGLISH NOBILITY. 5 

Sir B. — Needs rest! Why, confound it, man, every time I come 
down to Walton Hall she is resting. She is not really dangerously 
ill, Mordaunt, is she? 

SirC. [<iside]— I'll at ease. [Aloud] — Oh, no; since you were 
here last she has been to numerous balls, social circles, and club 
meetiugs. It was only yesterday and to-day that she has been in- 
disposed ; so I beg you will excuse her. 

Sir B. — Oh, certainly, certainly; aud, to change the subject, what 
say you to a week's hunt on Rush ton Moor? Johnstone told me, 
before I left London, that the pheasauts were as thick as bees in a 
hive; and by the way, Mordaunt, now I think of it, he is coming up 
this way in a week or two. 

Sir C. — Sir Frederick is a good judge of pheasant grouuds. I 
suppose he will probably be accompanied by His Eoyal Highness, 
and, perhaps, Lord Cole. They all enjoy hunting/ But if they 
would hunt nothing but birds, there would be less trouble and sorrow 
in this country of ours. 

Sir B.— Hunt nothing but birds ! Why, man, they do hunt other 
game. 

Sir C. [Aside] — I believe you. 

Sir B. It was only a month ago that the prince brought down 
as fine a pair of antlers as ever graced a cornice. 

Sir C— I see you misunderstand me. The game I had reterence 
to— to speak plainly — friend Barrington, is game of a higher stand- 
ard — woman. 

Sir B.— Oh, that is common enough, Mordaunt— just what we 
expect. The crimson that flows througa the veins of those who rale 
or will rule, once coursed through the veins of George the Third ; 
and what's in the blood can't be drawn out unless the life goes 
with it. 

Sir C. — That is a lame excuse; but come, Barrington, you need 
washing and dusting after your journey. [Pulls bell. Enter Will- 
iam.] Show Sir Bunsby his room, and see that everything is in 
order. When you are through with your toilet, Barrington, meet 
me in the park. I have made some improvements I wish to show 

you. 

Sir B. — I will not detain you long, Mordaunt. I am pretty quick 
at my toilet. 

[Exit Sir B. and William, William leading through L. 

Sir C- [Soliloquizing] — Ah, Bunsby, Bunsby, little do you know 
what my innei heart is undergoing ! Well, well, I'll bear it like a 
man. How easy it would be for me — an accidental shot, and noth- 
ing more — to rid the world of the author of this letter ! [Takes let- 
ter from pocket, and replaces it again.] Bat no! that would be 
cowardly, and unworthy of a Mordaunt Face to face he shall meet 
me, and have an equal chance for life. If I fall, so be it. If he, 
then I shall be amply revenged. Oh, Royalty! thou hidest beneath 
the ermine many a crime. When, oh, when shall we be like great 



6 LADY MORDAUNT; OR, 

America — equal in right and justice? Alas, I fear, never. The 
yoke is solid, and cannot be removed. • 

The crown which rests on heads of little mind, 
Can ne'er expect respect from all mankind. 

[Exit Sir C, U. E. 



ACT I.— Scene II. 

Sitting room in Sir Thomas Moncrieffe's house. Sir Thomas M. 
and Lady Moncrieffe discovered seated at a table opposite each 
other. Left centre of stage. 

Sir T. [Looking at letter]— This is indeed strange ! Sir Charles 
writes in a most curious strain. [Hands letter to L. M.] 

L. Moncrieffe [Refusing to take it] — I do not wish to read it, 
Sir Thomas. My heart is bruised enough with what I have already 



Sir Thomas— But in this letter Sir Charles states that it is his 
intention to apply for a divorce, and wishes us to be present at the 
examination. Alas, that the house of Moncrieffe should come to 
this! Harriet, Harriet, better you had died in your infancy, than 
brought this shame and curse upon our honor. 

Lady Mon. [Placing handkerchief to her eyes, weeps] — This is 
what a mother has to undergo! For all my teachings, and — it has 
come to this ! 

Sir Thomas — I pray you, Lady Moncrieffe, do not weep; though 
an undutiful daughter has so far forgotten herself as to throw aside 
the love of her husband for that oi: others. Come [arises], we will 
at once prepare for our departure to Walton Hall [L, M. arises], 
and, if necessary, return with our daughter. Here in our midst she 
shall remain, away from the bitter calumny of this world. 

[Lady M. takes Sir T.'s arm, and exit M. D. 



ACT I.— Scene III. 
Mushton Moor. Woods in distance. Whole of stage used for Scene. 

[Enter Sir C. and Sir Bunsby in hunting costume from R. Both 
have guns, ] 

Sir B.— Well, I can't say that Johnstone's judge of numbers is 
very correct. Here we have tramped five miles at the least, and 
nothing but a bob-tailed rabbit to reward our industry. 

Sir C. [Leaning on his gun]— I guess, Barring-ton, the pheasants 



FAST LIFE AMONG THE ENGLISH NOBILITY. 7 

have all taken wing. Probably they were acquainted with the fact 
that their territory was to be invaded by royal huntsmen. [Aside.] 
Mine has; but there the pheasants did not take wing and fly away. 
[Aloud.] Well, Barrington, let us try our luck towards the south 
road; perhaps we may meet with better success. 

[About to move off towards L.; shot heard from within. 

Sir B. — Hallo ! Egad ! there's some fellow banging away. I won- 
der if he brought down his bird? [Looks towards L. wing.] By 
Jove, he's coming this way ! 

Sir C. [Looks also] — If my eyes deceive me not, that form resem- 
bles very much your friend, Lord Vincent Cole. 

Sir B. — My friend, Mordaunt? "Why, he is as much a friend to 
you as to me. 

Sir C. — Perhaps so; but here he comes. 

[Enter Lord Vincent Cole from L. wing; stops short in his tracks 
on seeing Sir C. and Sir B.] 

Lord Cole — He here! Well, I must make the best of it; though 
I had hoped not to have met him. [Advances.] Good day, gentle- 
men. [Sir Charles turns away. 

Sir B. — Ah, good day; good day, Cole. [Sir B, looks at Sir C. 
Aside.] What the devil is the matter with Mordaunt? [Lays his 
hand on his shoulder.] Mordaunt, here's our friend Cole, 

[Mordaunt shrugs his shoulders. 

Sir C. [Undertone] — Yes, I am aware of his presence. I feel its 
contamination already. 

Lord Vincent — Perhaps Sir Charles is not well, or perhaps he 
does not wish to recognize me. 

Sir C. [Turning] — Your last supposition, Lord Vincent Cole, is 
correct. If that is not satisfactory, I can always be found at your 
service. 

Sir B. [Aside] — Well, hang me, if this is not a riddle that I can 
not solve ! 

Lord Vincent — Thank you for your consideration. We may 
meet yet on more suitable terms. I will bid you adieu, gentlemen. 

[Turns to go. 

Sir B.— Stop, Lord Vincent. As a friend of yours, likewise a 
friend of Sir Charles, I would most respectfully inquire what is the 
cause for this mysterious conduct ? A month ago — hardly that — you 
were across the festive board, the best of friends; and here, to-day, 
I hear you both intimate that a settlement must take place. What 
does it all mean? 

Sir C— Lord Vincent Cole can inform you, probably, better than 
I. If he pleads ignorance here, perhaps he will not do so when 
called upon by those whose duty it is to put questions and receive 
answers. 



8 LADY MORDAUNT; OR, 

Lord Cole — I understand your intimations, Sir Charles, and will 
no doubt be fully prepared in ease of an emergency. Barrington, 
allow me to bid you once more adieu. 

[Exit Lord Cole, R. E. 

Sir B.— Well, my hunting is spoiled lor this day, at least. Mor- 
daunt, what in the name of the seven wonder?, does this all mean ? 
Come, now, I am a true and tried friend of yours — let me hear the 
trouble. 

Sir C— Barrington, you are a friend of mine, and one that I 
sincerely hope never to lose in this world. Listen, and I will tell 
you what caused my coldness toward Lord Vincent. 

Sir B.— Go on; I am all attention. 

Sir C. — You remember when yesterdav you called in upon me at 
the Hall ? 

Sir B.— I do. 

Sir C. — You remember asking after Lady Morel aunt, and my 
telling you she was indisposed, and needed rest? 

Sir B.— Certainly; but what of that? 

Sir C— She had just left my presence when you entered— her 
eyes red and swollen with weeping; and the cause of this weeping, 
Barrington, was nothing more nor less than the horror of an expos- 
ure — an exposure of damning guilt— the exposure of a crime which 
in this country they term mildly — folly — but which an honest man 
or woman terms — a sin ! 

Sir B. — Heavens! Mordaunt; [agitated] you do not mean that! 
— surely you are mistaken ! What proofs have you of this ? 

Sir C. — Proof, Barrington, in black and white, letters which I 
accidentally found in her boudoir; and other mementoes, perfumed 
and bedecked with tinsel. But the letters are the proofs which con- 
vince me that my wife has foully wronged me. Among these letters 
are several written and signed by the man whom you called friend; 
others written by Sir Frederick Johnstone; and last, though not least 
among the number, appears the name of one who, instead of holding 
up an honest and just principle before the people who will one day 
call him King— 

Sir B.— The Prince ! 

Sir C— Aye, the Prince — no less a personage than His Royal 
Highness. But what can I expect ? His name is tinctured with a 
hundred royal conquests — such conquests as betray misguided 
women. To know one in whom the blood of kings flows is perhaps 
to some women an honor, and when once the bounds are over- 
stepped then the scepter and the crown shield that crime — which in 
that free republic America is dragged forth and punished as the case 



Sir B. — Go on, Mordaunt; my eyes begin to see the light. 

Sir C— My intentions are simply these : I am about to sue for a 
divorce. These letters, or some of them, shall be produced, and 
then to the world I shall have the satisfaction of showing up those 
who are shielded and protected by the throne. I have written a full 



FAST LIFE AMONG THE ENGLISH NOBILITY. 9 

and explicit letter to Sir Thomas, Harriet's father, requesting him to 
appear, with his wife, Lady Moncrieffe, at the examination. 

Sir B. — A wise forethought. But come, Mordaunt, let us return 
home; the stase will he ready in half an hour [consults watch] and 
we have not much time to lose. 

Sir C— So be it— hunting has but little charms for me now. 

[Exit Sir C. and Sir B/Left. 



ACT I.— Scene IV. 

Lady Mordatjnt's private room. 

[Enter Jane Lang. Stands about Center. R. E. 

Jane L. — Poor Lady Mordaunt ! she goes moping about the house 
like one with a fit of blues. I only wish I knew what was'the mat- 
ter. Something, I will wager, is wrong between her and Sir Charles. 
Heigh ho ! that's what comes of having riches. Now I never get 
into trouble — because why ? Just because I am too poor to pay my 
way out oi it. But Lady Harriet has been very good to me since I 
have been in her service. Let me see — I have had four new dresses 
in as many months, and she only wore them once. Oh, if she would 
only confide in me, and tell me all of her troubles — 

[Enter Lady Mordaunt, at the words, " confide in me," L.] 

Lady M.— Jane — 

Jane L. — My Lady — [Curtsies] — 

Lady M. — You were saying, just as I entered, that if I would 
only confide in you, ***** What could you do for me ? 

Jane — I would do all that lay in my power, my Lady. Oh, you 
do not know how it pains me to see you so troubled. It makes my 
heart sad to see you in such distress. 

Lady M. [Aside] — She may help me; and who knows but a true 
and trusty friend may be found in Jane Lang? [Aloud.] I think 
I may trust you, Jane. Promise you will help and aid me in my 
trouble, and I will be your lasting friend for life. 

Jane — I do. 

Lady Mordaunt — Then listen to the story of a wronged woman: 
Before my marriage with Sir Charles— which was much against my 
will — my life was one constant whirl of excitement. At balls and 
parties I generally took the lead. Dukes and earls proffered their 
hands and fortunes, but I rejected them all. My heart belonged to 
one, and only one. Poor he was indeed, but of noble nature. My 
parents would not listen for a moment to our marriage. I was kept 
in constant surveillance by an ever watchful father; and finally, 
without the consent of my heart, accepted the hand of Sir Charles 
Mordaunt. In one short month after our honeymoon he grew cold 
and careless, and I his wife was left to repent at leisure. He saw 



10 LADY MORDATTNT; OR, 

that I was unhappy, but not one word of consolation escaped his 
lips. Finally I grew desperate, and resolved to enter once more 
into the gaiety of a fast and excitable life. This at once caused a 
great commotion in my family, and ere long, as you well know, my 
name was the theme for general conversation; though, as God is 
my witness, two-thirds of the calumny spoken against me was false. 
True, under the excitement of wine and the company of flattering 
men, I may have forgotten myself. 

Jane L.— No, no, do not say that, my lady ! 

Lady More aunt — Wait till I have finished, Jane; then judge 
me as you will. Feeling chagrined and excited at the treatment of 
Sir Charles I kept on in the whirlpool of amusement — such amuse- 
ment as has often caused sorrow, and oftener proved fatal to the 
sex of which I am a member. Sir Charles has now determined to 
sue for a divorce, which undoubtedly he will obtain. If he does, I 
am blasted for life, and those whom I have considered my friends 
will be held up to public scorn. Now, Jane, what I propose is this: 
You, as is well known, have been my constant companion, and to 
the world at large I wish to be thought insane. My actions shall 
be such as will lead the most careful observer to suspect that I am 
an insane woman. You, Jane, are to corroborate my statements, 
and by so doing — even if you have to carry your testimony before 
the bar of justice — it will save me. Will you promise ? 

Jane L. — My Lady, 1 promised that I would serve you. You 
have but to command — I will obey. 

Lady M. — Thanks, thanks for your kindness; I still have hopes. 
Now let Sir Charles do his worst. On his return if he should send 
for me, inform the valet that Lady Mordaunt is indisposed — in fact, 
you might suggest that my mind is affected. That will suffice for 
the present. I will retire now, my dear friend — for such I shall 
always call you. Eemember what you know — keep it inviolate. 

[Turns to door as she says this, and exit— same entrance as she 
came on.] 

Jane L. — [soliloquizing — I will keep my word — yes, if even on the 
witness stand I will swear false to save her. I suppose I shall have 
to suffer for it eventually, if not in this, perhaps in the next world. 
Ah, me! what a lot of wickedness there is among the nobility. 
There is that great ^big Albert Edward, or Edward Albert, as they 
call him, he is always poking his nose in some woman's business. I 
would like to see him come around me with his royal manners. I'd 
— well, I'd — well, I know what I would do. 

[Moves off as she says this. U. E. 



[Curtain falls. End of First Act.'] 



FAST LIFE AMONG THE ENGLISH NOBILITY. 11 

ACT II.— Scene I. 

Grand club chamber, London. Time, night. Jets and globes arranged. 
Two small tables on each side, R. and L. Gentlemen or English 
lords at cards, and wine about center of stage and xoell back. Large 
table, with red or yellow cloth. Table covered xvith bottles, glasses, 
papers. Seated at table are the Prince of Wales, Sir Frederick 
Johnstone, Lord Cole, Capt. Farquhar, and three or four other 
lords. Sir Frederick, the Prince, Lord Cole and Capt. Far- 
quhar engaged in cards. As curtain rises, shuffling of cards, pour- 
ing out of wine, laughter. Curtain xoell up. 

Have this Scenewell in front, to allow for Scene II. 

Sir Fred. [Looking around room] — What can have become of 
Mordaunt? Has he cut us, I wonder? And Bunsby, too? Here 
it is nearly a week, and neither of them have put in an appearance. 

Lord Cole— I guess Barringtou is trymg to show himself to his 
best advantage in the presence of Lady Mordaunt. I met them 
yesterday on Rushton Moor. And do you know that Mordaunt had 
the impudence to give me the cold shoulder? 

Prtnce — Ha, ha! You were a fortunate fellow, Yincent, that he 
did not give you cold lead instead of his shoulder. 

Capt. Far. — Perhaps it was a cold shoulder of mutton that Mor- 
daunt offered him. Ha, ha! 

All — Ha, ha, ha ! 

Lord Cole — Jesting aside, gentlemen, I met Bunsby and Mor- 
daunt on Rushton Moor, passed the order of the day, and for my 
politeness was insulted; nay, more, was informed that if I wished, 
satisfaction, all that was necessary was to demand it. 

Prince — By heavens! [agitated.] It can't be possible that Mor- 
daunt suspects anything. 

.Sir Fred. — It 'looks very suspicious. Did you ever have any 
words with Mordaunt? [Those at the small tables direct their 
attention to large table.] 

Lord Cole — None; and, till yesterday, we were apparently good 
meads. 

Capt. Far. — Rest assured, gentlemen, that something has trans- 
pired which leads Sir Charles to suspect certain members of our 
club. 

[M. D. opens. Sir Bunsby calmly walks in and stands near 
large table. Prince, Sir F., Lord C. and Capt F. rise by chairs.] 

Sir Bunsby — Yes, 'gentlemen, -you are right — something has 
happened, and that something is as well known to you as to me. 
I left Sir Charles but a short time ago, and from his own lips I have 
heard the wrongs which he has undergone from those who once he 
termed his friends. 

Prince — Sir Bunsby Barringtou, to me your words are a riddle; 
what it may be to these gentlemen [looks around] it is more than I 
can tell, but as they are of age, they can speak for themselves. 

Sir B. — Your Royal Highness, as the representative of Sir 
Charles Mordaunt, I would say that when you appear in the wit- 
2 



12 LADY MORDATJNT; OR, 

ness box then perhaps you can solve the problem which seems so 
difficult just now. 

Capt Far. — Perhaps Sir Bunsby can enlighten us by speaking 
in somewhat plainer terms. 

Sir B. — In jour presence, sir, Sir Bunsby Barrington has nothing 
to explain. I once thought :hat some honor existed among us ot 
the nobiiit.\ , but I am afraid it has escaped and taken up with the 
plebeian stock. Gentlemen, allow me to bid you good night. 
When we meet again the riddle will most undoubtedly be solved. 

[Exit same entrance, M. E. 

Lord Cole — Now. was I right or wrong ? Depend upon it we 
are in for it. 

Sir F. — [snapping his fingers] — A fig for his knowledge! What 
can he do bur throw hints If before ihe world wheu he attempts to 
drag u- forth? It. will not disturb my slumbers ! 

Lord C. and Capt. F. — [together]— Nor mine! 

Prince— Gentlemen, it is anything but agreeable for me to be 
placed in a public witness box. My mother, the Queen, will think 
she has a most dutiful son. But what is done cannot be remedied. 
If I am called upon to appear, and questions are put to me which 
would Ciiininrite my honor, rest assured I will answer to my best 
ability. [Consults watch.] It is now- nearly midnight. By your 
leave, gen lem<-n, I will bid you adieu. [Takes hat from table, puts 
it on and exit, M. D.] 

Lord Cole [To Sir F. and Capt. Far ]— Well, thank heaven ! 
there is more than one fish in the pan. I think I wdl also retire and 
sleep on this matter. Gentlemen, as president of the Royal Club, I 
hereby adjourn our meeting. [Raps on table. Gentlemen gather 
together and depart, arm in arm, through M. D. Sir Frederick, 
Capt. Farquhar and Lord Cole slowly walk out, conversing and 
gesticulating.] 

ACT II.— Scene II. 

Time, morning. Reception room at Walton Hall. 

[Sir Thomas, Lady Moncrieffe and Mrs. Cadogan enter from U. E. 
William, the valet, follows, with portmanteau. He crosses over 
to door in L. Sir T., Lady M. and Mrs. C. stop about C] 

Mrs. C— Sir. Charles is not at home, my lord, but his wife is in 
her chamber. Shall I inform her of your arrival? Poor thing! she 
is nor in her right mind now, and her actions at times ate very 
strange 

Lady Mon.— Poor Harriet! 

Sir Thomas — Let her know of our arrival. 

[Seat themselv s at table; look at books. Lady Mordaunt ap- 
pears a' Middle Door; Mrs. Cadogan behind her.] 

Mrs. C. — Your father, Sir Thomas, and Lady Moncrieffe, Lady 
Harriett. 



FAST LIFE AMONG THE ENGLISH NOBILITY. 13 

Lady Mordaunt— I do not know those people; [look wonder- 
ngly at Sir T and L. Mom.] who are thev ? 

[St T. & L. Mon. look abound and quickly arise, advance toward 
Lady Mordaunt.] 

Lady Mon. — Not know ns, Harriet — your parents ? 

Lady Mordaunt — I have no parents. Alas, they were lost at 
sea, many, many years ago! 

Mrs. Cadogan— [steps up close to Sir T. and Lady Mon.] — I 
told you she was not in her right mind. You see she does even rec- 
ognize you. [Sir T and Lady Mon. bow their heads in their hands.] 
Her waiting maid tells me that she has been in that state several 
days before Sir Charles requested me to attend her. 

Sir T. and Lady Mon. weep]— [togethe ]— Poor Harriet ! 

Sir T. — And has it come to this? Harriet, child ! do you not 
know us — vour father, your mother? 

Lady Mordaunt— [shaking her head slowly]—- Perhaps you 
would like to look at some of our books. 

[Advances toward table and takes up a book. Lady Mon. and 
Sir T. follow her. Lady Mon. siuks in chair and places her head on 
table for support.] 

[Jane Lang p-eps in at Middle Door — aside] — It works like a 
charm. She plays her part well [Withdraws. 

Sir T.— Mrs. Cadogan, will you oblige me by leaving us alone 
with our daughter? 

[Mrs. Cadogan bows and off; Door in Side, Eight. 

Lady Mordaunt— [Still looking at book]— This is a very prettj 
book; full of such exquis'te engravings. 

Sir T.— [Looks sorrowfully at her] — Oh, Harriet ! Harriet! speak, 
and tell us that you know your parents— hose who gave you life ! 
. Lady Mordaunt— See, here is a picture of a convent. How I 
wish I was in a convent ! JSTo more trouble, no more trials ! 

Sir T. — [Sinks in chair]— Alas! she is insane- she knows us not ! 
Would that she never married S r Charles. But I cannot blame him 
—no, I am th» one that deserves censure. [Clacking of whip 
within.] Hark! I hear the rumbling of wheels and the postillion's 
whip. 

[Voices within— Sir C, and Sir B.] 

Sir C. — Home again ! [enter both] if I can call it such. 

Sir B.— Yes, and my throat is full of i'ust ! 

[Both stop short on seeing Sir T. and Lady M. Then Sir Charles 
advances. Sir Thomas arises and advances toward Sir Charles.] 

Sir C. — [extending his hand]— You are down much sooner ihan I 
expected. Sir Thomas, Sir Buns by Barring -i on. [Introduces them.] 

Sir B. [Bows]— Glad to know you, Sir Thomas. 

[Lady Harriet walks up and down, looking at book. 

Sir C. [Advances to Lndy Mon crieffe, takes her hand]— Do not 
weep, I pray you, Lady MoncrieiFe. Though this summons is one 



14 LADY MORDAUJSfT; OR, 

most unwelcome, still, in duty to your daughter, to yourselves, and 
also to mine honor, [Barrington has seated himself,] you will 
acknowledge that my motives and minciples are sincere. 

Lady Moncrieffe [Agitated] — Sir Charles, I, the mother of her 
who is your wife, do not blame yon. Your letters to us have been 
high toned and of noble character. I thank you for bearing so long 
the heavy burden which has fallen upon you. 

Sir T.— I can but sanction my wife's thanks. But, Sir Charles, 
we were not prepared for this— to find our daughter ignorant of the 
presence of her parents. 

Sir C. [Looks at Lady Harriet]— Sir Thomas, whether to believe 
or not to believe, is a question I have often asked mvself in regard 
to Lady Mordaunt's strange behavior. True, our family physician 
tells me she is incurably insane, the effect of great torture on the 
mind. To prove that my idea is correct — in saying she has a pre- 
tense in this—is more than I can do. My friend. Sir Bunsby, [points 
to him,] is of the same opinion as myself. I have just returned from 
London, where Sir Bunsby has had the pleasure of confronting the 
authors of my sorrow. [Sir C. looks at Lady Harriet. Lady Har- 
riet casts side glances at Sir Charles.] You and Lady Moncrieffe 
must be fatigued with your journey. By your leare, my valet will 
conduct you to your apartment. [Touches bell. Enter William, 
from L. Lady Mon. and Sir Thomas prepare to follow.] 

Lady Mon. — We do need rest, Sir Charles; but not so much from 
the fatigue of our journev as from the effects of sorrowful hearts. 
[They both look at Harriet as they exit, William leading, M. D. 
Sir. C. looks sorrowfully at them as they leave. Sir Bunsby arises. 
Lady Harriet has seated herself in chair by table, still looking at 
book.] 

[Sir Bunsby approaches Sir Charles; lays hand on his shoulder; Sir 
C. turns.] 

Sir Btjnsby — Lady Mordaunt assumes most magnificently, or else 
ice are mistaken in our conjectures. I, as your friend, would advise 
the examination of Lady Mordaunt's case by some of our London 
experts. 

Sir C. — Thank you for your suggestion, Barrington. I may abide 
by it, but not just at present. 

Lady Mordaunt [Arising] — Gentlemen the strangers who have 
but entered our house a short time ago, claim to be my parents. 
[Sir B. (aside)— Egad ! she has got a good memory.] They would 
not believe me when I informed them that mine were lost at sea 
many years ago. 

Sir C. — Lady Mordaunt, whether you are under the impression 
or not that your parents were lost at sea, matters but little in the 
case which is soon to come up in court. If there your insanity can 
be proved, then I waive all further examination. Come, Ba- ring- 
ton, [takes his arm,] let us retire to my private study. There are 
matters of importance I wish to discuss. 

[Exit Sir C. and Sir B. through Door in Flat, 



FAST LIFE AMONG THE ENGLISH NOBILITY. 15 

Lady Mo rd aunt— [advances forward, clasps her hands. Speaks 
in agonizing tones]— Oh, father! mother ! how much longer must I 
assume this terrible part ! Even throw you aside ! What if I not 
gain my point after all ? Oh, sinful world ! — full of hypocrisy, de- 
ceit and sin; would that I knew it less ! But I must be nerved for 
this coming revelation. Charles, Charles ! I have wronged you — 
yes, a thousand wrongs— but if once I escape this great calumny 
which now hangs over my head, my life shall be one unceasing act 
of love and submission ! 

[Turns and exit through Middle Door. 



ACT II.— Scene III. 

Private Study of Sir Charles Mordaunt. Sir C. and Sir B. 
discovered seated at table. Papers, books, lying around. Sir C. 
has letter in hand, directing Sir B's attention to it. 

Sir C. — This letter, Barrington, is the deepest cub of all — and 
these valentines ! [Picks up package and tosses down on table.] 
What words of love they speak.! and here — [picks np handkerchief] 
— another memento of royalty. 

[Barrington is reading letter. 

Sir B.— This letter does indeed speak volumes of love; [lays it 
down] but Mordaunt, even armed with such as this, remember'it is 
hard to strike at the royal blood. Shielded and protected by the 
throne it can accomplish such deeds as would make the blood of any 
honest man chill with horror. 

[Enter William, letter on waiter.] R. 

William— A letter Sir Charles. [Sir C. t»kes it. 

Sir C. — Post marked London. [Opens ;it. Exit William. R.] 
[Reads.] 
' 'Sir Charles Mordaunt. 

"Dear Sir: In accordance with your wishes we have the honor 
to inform you that your case on file will be tried day after to-mor- 
row. Please be in readiness. Yours truly, 

"Sergeant Ballantine." 

Ha, this is much sooner than I expected. [Taps bell. Enter Wil- 
liam. Sir C. hands him letter.] Deliver this to Sir Thomas— he 
will understand its contents. [William receives letter on waiter 
aud exit.] Barrington, you will be with me, of course. I may need 
your counsel. 

Sir B.— Certainly, Mordaunt, I will be near you through the 
whole. 



16 LADY M0RDAT7NT; OB, 

Sir C. — Lady Mordaunt and her mother will remain behind. Per- 
haps on onr return she may have become reconciled, and prove her- 
self as sane as you or I. 

Sir B. — What is your motive in leaving Lady Moncrieffe at the 
Hall? 

Sir C. — For fear the shock might be too great for her nerves. I 
do not wish to cause more anguish than I can possibly avoid. 

Sir B. — Quite right, Mordaunt; quite right. I appreciate your 
noble nature. 

[Enter Sir Thomas, with letter in hand, M. D.] 

Sir Thomas — I have just perused your letter, Sir Charles, and. 
shall be in readiness to accompany you. Do you think it best for 
Lady Moncriefie to appear in court? 

Sir C. — I had just suggested to Sir Bunsby that it would be better 
for her to remain at Walton Hall with her daughter, since it has 
transpired that Lady Harriet has made admission to me of her guilt; 
but considering her insanity, or pretended insanity, these admissions 
may favor but little my ca^^e in court. 

Sir Thomas— Thanks, thanks; I will at once notify Lady Mon- 
crieffe, and give my opinion in favor with your own. 

[Turns and exit M. D. 

Sir B. [Arising] — Well, Mordaunt, if agreeable to you, I will 
seek my room and take a little siesta. This confounded dust in my 
throat and lungs has nearly suffocated me. [Sir Charles leans over 
to tap the bell for valet.] Do not ring; I can easily find my way 
through your winding halls. Keep up good spirits, Mordaunt; keep 
up good spirits. All will be well yet. [Exit through M. D. 

Sir Charles [To himself]— All will be well yet! Ah, would 
that I knew it would be so. Harriet, Harriet, what have I done to 
deserve this ? True, I may at times have been a little harsh in my 
demeanor, but not enough to receive such a punishment as this. 
Would that I had never met her ! How little did I know, when 
gazing on her beauty, that it would be used against me t-o! Weil, 
well, we can no longer be happy together. 'T is the last straw that 
breaks the camel's back. Though to the outer wwrld I may seem 
gay and careless, my cup of sorrow is full to overflowing. 

[Bows his head on table, and slepps. Lights let down quite low. 
Enter Lady Mordaunt, with lamp in hand. Stops midway. Gazes 
at Sir C^ Holds lamp towards him. 

Lady Mord.— He sleeps ! Oh, that I dared to throw myself at 
his feet and ask his forgiveness ! But no! it cannot be. [Advances 
nearer.] And there, beside him, are the evidences of my guilt. 
Why did I not destroy them? Even now, if I could but'possess 



PAST LIFE AMONG THE ENGLISH NOBILITY. 17 

myself of those odious papers, it would serve to turn the tide in my 
favor. [Advances nearer. Sir Charles moves restlessly; then looks 
up; sees Lady Morel aunt; rubs his eyes.] 

Sir Chas.— Lady Mordaunt. 

Lady Mord. — Sir Charles. 

Sir Chas. — I thought we were to shun each other's presence as 
much as possible? [Take* up letters and puts in pocket.] 

Lady Mord. [Aside] — Too late, too late. 

Sir Chas. [Continues] — But I find you are unwilling to adhere 
to your part of the contract. 

Lady Mord.— Sir Charles, when a contract is made between two 
parties it is generally signed, sealed and delivered in the presence 
of witnesses. Have you such a contract ? 

Sir Chas. — I thought Lady Mordaunt's word would have sufficed ; 
but for a person who carries insanity about with her, such a con- 
tract would be as null and void a* if never made. 

Lady Mord. — Then you agree with me that I am insane. I am 
glad to see you are so candid. 

Sir C — I do not agree with you, Lady Mordaunt. In fact, in 
my own mind I feel satisfied that a shallow pretense is daily 
enacted in this house; but not being a Doctor of Medicine my testi- 
mony would avail but little were I to state my candid opinion as to 
your mysterious conduct. 

Lady Mord. — It is very fortunate you are not one of the medical 
fraternity — poor Lady Harriet's case would go hard against her. 
Excuse me for interrupting your slumber. I wandered here by 
mistake. I will relieve you at once of my presence. [Turns.] But 
remember, Sir Charles, do not, for my sake, study medicine. 

Sir Chas. — Stay, madam! [Rises and advances.] Now that 
you have seen fir to break our contract, listen to me. [She turns 
to him.] To add insult to injury, you assume a mask in the pre- 
sence of others, which you do not hesitate to throw off before me. 

Lady Mord. — It would indeed be folly, Sir Charles, to attempt 
to conceal my sanity in your presence; but you will surely acknow- 
ledge that whatever part I assume in the presence of others, that it 
has its desired effect. 

Sir Chas. — I am willing to acknowledge anything, madam, espe- 
cially if it refers to the intrigues and cunning of a woman so devoid 
of all respect as Lady Mordaunt. 

Lady Mord. — Sir Charles is rather cutting in his remarks; but I 
remember once upon a time, when first he entered the house of Sir 
Thomas Moncrieffe, he then thought, and was willing to take his 
oath, that no woman was so fair'or good as Lady Harriet Mon- 
crieffe. 

Sir Chas. — True, madam; I will confess I thought you all that 
was pure and good; but as I stated once before, the jewel that I 
received I soon discovered, like a cheated lapidary, was worthless 
paste. 

Lady Mord. — You may yet discover, Sir Charles, that though 
but worthless paste, I will ^tick fast to my resolution. If my point 
is gained, then the jewel may be reset. You understand me, I hope? 



18 LADY MORDAUNT; OR, 

Sir Chas. — Lady Mordaunt, if. through the great impersonation 
you are performing, you should be allowed legally to remain my 
wife, you are welcome to remain at Walton Hall, or you are at 
liberty to reside with tho^e from whom I received you — your parents. 
If at the former place, you will be troubled but very little with my 
presence 

Lady Mord. — You might add. sir, that you have troubled me 
very little with your presence heretofore. If the hunting and fish- 
ing excursions which Sir Charles has been in the habit of attending 
since our honeymoon, were fully investigated, I doubt not but what 
I myself might have good cause to apply for the same privilege that 
you wish so much to enjoy. 

Sir Chas. [Excited]— Zounds, madam ! I do not understand you. 
What, accuse me of infidelity ! Beware, madam, beware! 

Lady Mord. — I pray you, Sir Charles, do not grow excited. 
Until you obtained what you called proof, in the shape of several 
foolish letters, you thought me faithful and sincere. If the private 
secretary of your lordship's was invaded, as my priva'e desk was 
forced, it might perhaps reveal greater proofs of the game you 
hunted, and the fish you angled for! 

Sir Chas. — Would, that I had witnesses to view the insanity of 
this woman ! 

Lady Mord.— Perhaps you had better summon some of the house- 
hold. 

Sir Chas. — For me to have the satisfaction of seeing you play 
the chameleon with your many colored hues of insanity ! No, 
madam; you have already satisfied your servants that you are incu- 
rably insane ! 

Lady Mord. — And you, Sir Charles, that I am not? 

Sir Chas. — Yes, Lady Mordaunt — that you are not, have not 
been, nor svill be. -The woman who can design with such perfec- 
tion may possibly die of hypocrisy, but never of insanity ! 

Lady Mord.— Thank you for your honest confession. 

Sir C. — No thanks, madam, are necessary. If all of Scotland's 
women were one-twentieth part as sane as yourself the superstition 
for which your country is accredited would be removed. 

Lady Mord — Indeed you are complimentary to my country ! 
— still you saw fit to make your selection there. . 

Sir C. — Better men than myself, madam, have been deceived in 
their selection. But enough of this — I see you are invulnerable. 

Lady Mord. — You did not always think so; but before we part, 
Sir Charles, allow me to suggest that if you were Lady Harriet 
and I Sir Charles Mordaunt, I would have taken other steps for re- 
venge, instead of dragging a defenceless woman before the bar of 
justice. Among those of your sex — providing they are not too cow- 
ardly — it is customary to seek redress face to face — at least it is so 
in Scotland. 

Sir C. — True, madam, I thought of that, but my better feelings 
controlled me, and I did not wish to dye my hands in blood foi a 






FAST LIFE AMONG THE ENGLISH NOBILITY. 19 

voluntary guilty woman. If the author or authors of my wrongs 
had sought you out I would most undoubtedly have used the means 
you refer to. 

Lady Mord. — You still adhere to your first charge; perhaps i f 
it is not substantiated when the investigation takes place, you may 
feel very much chagriDed before your titled friends ! 

Sir C. — Through your machinations the case may go against me, 
but those whom I recognize as my friends will none the less respect 
me, madam. 

Lady Mord.— Sir Charles, one word before I leave you. When 
first you met me at my father's house and became enamored of me, 
you were acquainted with the fact that my heart was another's. 
Out of regard for my parents I accepted your hand. You knew my 
love did not accompany my avowal to prove true and faithful to 
yourself— but that you waived aside, and consoled your feelings by 
the thought that I would yet love you. The one to whom I had 
given my heart left his home, his fireside, his mother and his sisters 
and sought another country. His last words to me were that he 
could not remain when he knew I was another's. I did not forget 
him nor cease to mourn his departure; but when I saw that you 
were so good and kind I will confess my love did turn toward yon. 
But, Sir Charles, your kindness was of short duration. Our honey- 
moon scarce o'er, you had forgotten that your wife existed. I was 
left to amuse myself as best I might. True, I was surrounded by 
all that was necessary to make life a luxury — but that was not what 
I wanted most. The man who swore to protect and Jove me always 
soon forgot his promise, and for weeks was absent from his wife. 
Of course I could easily pass away the hours without your presence, 
but if you thought so, I did not. My life had always been one of 
gaiety and excitement — such I needed and such I sought in your 
absence; but if any crime was e'er committed by me which should 
deserve a censure, it was done when I was not cognizant ot the 
fact. The letters which you possess and forced my desk to procure, 
are evidences, I own, which look like proof of infidelity, but they 
are mere shallow words, written on the moment. 

Sir C. — You reason well, madam; but perhaps you will call 
those tinseled papers— dubbed valentines — shallow words; or the 
handkerchief with the royaL initials, shallowness; or again, the ac- 
ceptance of sundry presents, shallowness. If so, madam, allow me 
as in other matters, to differ with you. Youf remarks as to my 
absence do not weigh against my conscience to any extent, for upon 
all occasions you were invited to accompany me ; but for reasons 
best known to yourself you refused; therefore on that score I can 
plead not guilty. However, I will not detain you any longer; and 
let me once again, ere you retire, ask that you will try this time, at 
least, to shun my presence, as I will yours. 

[Turns to table. 

Lady Mord.— I will not intrude on your lordship again. I think 
we understand each other without any further explanations. Good 
night! [Coldly.] 



20 LADY MORDAUNT; OR, 

[Exit Lady M., M. D. She turns and looks at Sir C. as exit. 
Sir Chas. [Seated and looking wonderingly at Lady Mordaunt 
as she goes off]— Good night, Lady Mordaunt! May your bIuo bers 
be less disturbed than mine ! Did ever woman have such barefaced 
impudence ? I have the curiosity to know [arises] if she will return 
to her own apartments. In order to satisfy myself, I will toilow 
her! [Exit cautiously, M. D. 



ACT II.— Scene IV. 

Room of Lady Mordaunt. Jane Lang busy about. 

Jane L. — Ob, I shall be glad when this thing is through with. 
Poor Lady Mordaunt has a terrible part to perform. Now if it was 
me I would let him go to Jericho. But that's the way with us 
women — the more a man dislikes us the closer we cling to him. Ah, 
here comes my Lady ! 

[Enter Lady M. from Side. Goes to table and sets down lamp. 
Then approaches Jane.] 

Lady Mord. — Sir Charles was in rather an humorous mood to- 
night. He even went so far as to remind me that we were to keep 
asunder. If my plan succeeds which I am now carrying out, he 
will probably become insane himself when it is known I am entitled 
to a shelrer under this roof. 

Jane Lang— I watched you to-day, my Lady, and you played 
your part well. Let a woman alone for frustrating the designs of 
those who seek to conquer them. Shall you attend the trial, Lady 
Harriet? 

Lady Mord. — It would not be policy for me to do so, even if I 
wished. Privately from my counsel I have received positive order* 
to remain at home and await the finale. At the conclusion of the 
trial he tells me that secretly he will dispatch a messenger with the 
verdict. Oh, how I long to hear it ! Bat I must have patience. 

Jane Lang — It will soon be brought to a close, my Lady, and if 
a woman's instinct tells me right it will be in your favor. Of course 
they will summon me, and rest assured that what I have promised 
I will do. 

Lady Mord. — Best of friends ! [Takes her hands.] I think I 
will retire now, for I need rest. Come, Jane. 

[They turn to door in Fmt, and exit. Lady M. first. 



ACT II.— Scene V. 

Same as Scene III. Study of Sir Charles Mordaunt. 8*b 
Charles, Sir Bunsby, Sir Thomas and Mrs. Cadogan. The 
Three first seated around table. Mrs. C standing near. Morning. 

Sir Thomas — Sir Charles, I informed Lady Moncrieffe of our 
wishes. In fact, she preferred that it should be so. 
Sir C. — 'T is better it should be so. 



FAST LIFE AMONG THE ENGLISH NOBILITY. 21 

Sir B. — Far better, Sir Thomas; for there will be the less number 
to suffer the public testimony that will be given. 

Sir Chas. — Mrs. Cadogan, I have received notice that yourself 
and Jane Lang are to attfnd the court, to-morrow We will depart 
this afternoon by stage for London. Please to notify Miss Lang to 
be in readiness. 

Mrs. Cadogan [Bows]— Your wishes shall be obeyed, Sir Charles. 

[Exit M. D. 

Sib Chas.— Sir Thomas, whatever the verdict maybe in this case, 
which is about to be thrown broadcast to the world, rest assured 
that no estrangement of feeling will take place on my part. And as 
my friend Sir Bunsby will tell you, it has cost me even a bitter trial 
to summon courage to bring your name and that o p Lady Moncrieffe 
before the bar of justice. But you know all that has taken place. 
The disgrace which my own wife has brought upon me of course 
enters your home as well as my own. 

Sir Thomas — You have done no more than your honor demands, 
Sir Charles; and I, even though her father, would be the last to cen- 
sure you for the steps you have taken. If Lady Moncrieffe and 
myself had allowed our daughter to wed the man of her choice, this 
would in all probability have been saved us. But Lady Moncrieffe 
and myself will always look upon you only in the light of an honest, 
upright man. 

Sir B.— Nobly spoken, Sir Thomas Moncrieffe. There are few 
fathers in this land would say as much. 

Sir Chas. — Except yourself, Barrington; that is — if you were a 
man of family. 

Sir B. — Well, by not being a man of family, perhaps much trouble 
is also saved. 

Sir Thomas— If I thought such trouble was to befall you, Sir 
Bunsby, as has befallen me, I should always hope to see you remain 
single. 

Sir Chas. [Arising]— Well, gentlemen, we had better prepare for 
our departure. If you will accompany me to the dining hall, I hope 
to find a lunch spread for us. Mrs. Cadogan has been very attentive 
to my wants, and to those of Lady Harriet's, during her short stay 
here. Come, Sir Thomas, Sir Bunsby. 

[They arise and exit through M. D. 



Curtain falls. End of Act II. 



28 LADY MORDAUNT; OR 

ACT III.— Scene I. 

The London Divorce Court. London. As Curtain rises let Spectators 
converse in low tones, so as Just to be audible' to audience. Curtain 
well up. Lord Penzance rises and speaks to Court Crier. 

Lord Penz. — Call the Court to order, [Then seats himself. 

Court Crier — [Rises, raps three times with hammer on table] — 
The Court will come to order. 

[Seats himself. Silence among spectators. 

Lord Penz.— [Rising and addressing Jury]— Gentlemen, we are 
assembled here to-day at this bar of justice in order to give a fair 
and impartial trial in the case before the Court — Mordaunt vs. Mor- 
daunt, Johnstone and Cole. This suit, gentlemen, has been insti- 
tuted by Sir Charles Mordaunt on the ground of his being most 
foully wronged. But, on the other hand, it is now contended that 
the admissions, if made, were done so when Lady Mordaunt was 
insane. In consequence of Lady Mordaunt's alleged madness, she 
has now pleaded to the petition, and the issue now submitted to 
you, gentlemen, was, whether she was sane or insane at the time 
and since the citation on the petition was served against her. 
[Seats himself.] The case will be opened by Dr. Deane, Queen's 
Counsel. 

Dr. Deane— [Rising, turns to jury]— Gentlemen of the jury, the 
issue to be tried, as stated by the honorable judge, is, Was Lady 
Mordaunt on a certain day, and at the present time, of sound mind? 
In this court such a case has never occurred before; but in other 
courts such an issue has frequently arisen. The principle of such an 
inquiry was, that no man should be put upon his trial who was una- 
ble to defend himself, by what was called the visitation of God. On 
Saturday last she was seen by a gentleman whose reputation reaches 
far beyond the United Kingdom, and the testimony of that gentle- 
man, and in fact of the medical witnesses throughout, would show 
that her ladyship showed great failure of memory, and inability to • 
keep up anything like a sustained conversation. She had no power 
of suggesting a subject. Her powers of perception were slow and of 
such a nature as to prevent her answering any question with prompt- 
ness. I will now proceed to call the first witness in this case. 

Court Crier [Rises]— Jane Lang! 

[Jane rises from her seat, proceeds to witness box. Court crier 
or clerk swears her:] You do solemnly swear that the testimony you 
are about to give, shall be the truth, the whole truth, and nothing 
but the truth. So help you. 

Jane L. — I do. [Court crier sits down. 

Dr. Deane [To Jane L.]— You were, and are still, in the service 
of Lady Mordaunt? 

Jane L. — I am. 

Dr. Deane — "Will you state to the court what your opinion is as 
regards the insanity of Lady Mordaunt? 



FAST LIFE AMONG THE ENGLISH NOBILITY. 23 

• Jane — In May, 1869, I became lady's companion to Lady Mor- 
daunt. During all the time I have been in close attendance upon 
her, and therefore had ample opportunities of judging as to her 
memory and habits. 

Dr. Deane — What was and is your judgment? 

Jane — Her memory was deficient — it was almost gone. She made 
efforts to remember, but could not. In taking her food she very 
often used her fingers; she would also tear her dress. When we 
were out she was in the habit of picking up dirty articles from the 
street. She was always excited after seeing strangers. When out 
in the carriage she would endeavor to throw herself from it. She 
told me that she had discovered a plot against her. At times she 
would throw herself about the room; and ate coal and cinders. 

Sergeant Ballantine— [rising] — Did Lady Mordaunt's mother 
visit her while you were in her service ? 

Jane — She did — twice. 

Sergt. Ball. — Had Lady MoDcrieffe told you of certain state- 
ments she made — when Lady Mordaunt mentioned certain names? 

Jane— She did. 

Sergt. Ball. — [turning to Dr. Deane]— I have no further ques- 
tions to ask the witness. 

Dr. Deane— [to Jane] — That will do; you can retire. Call [Jane 
curtsies and takes her seat] the next witness. 

Court Crier — Alice Cadogan ! 

[Mrs. C. rises and takes her place in witness box. Is sworn by 
C.C,] 

Dr. Deane [To witness] — You have. I believe, been in attend- 
ance on Lady Mordaunt ? 

Mrs. Cad — I have for four or five days. 

Dr. Deane— Was it at Lady Mordaunt's request? 

Mrs. Cad. — Sir Charles, her husband, requested me to attend 
her. 

' Dr. Deane — State to the court what your opinion is in reference 
to Lady Mordaunt's condition of mind. 

Mrs. Cad. — From what I have seen, I should pronounce her in- 
sane. 

Dr. Deane — State a circumstance. 

Mrs. Cad.— She would tear her hair, rave, and use not very deco- 
rous language; and threatened the servants in various ways. 

Dr. Deane [To Serg't Baliantine]— Has my learned brother any 
questions to ask this witness? 

Serg't Ballantine [Eising] — None. [Seats himself. 

Dr. Deane [To witness]— That will do. Call the [Mrs. Cado- 
gan retires] next witness. 

Court Crier — George Burrows ! 

[Dr. Geo. Burrows takes place in witness box. Is sworn. 

Dr, Deane [To witness] — You are, I believe, the family physi- 
cian of Sir Charles Mordaunt? 

Geo. Burrows — I have that honor. 

Dr. Deane— In attendance upon Lady Mordaunt, were you or . 
were you not satisfied as to her sanity ? 



24 LADY MORDAUNT; OR, 

Geo. Burrows— I made it my special duty to examine carefully 
Lady Mordaunt's case, and am fully satisfied she is incurably in- 
sane; — and on which statement I will stake my reputation as a 
medical man. She is but a mere wreck in body and mind. 

Serg't Ball. [Rising] — I should like to ask the witness one ques- 
tion. Did Lady Mordaunt, at any time within the last five days, 
have any conversation with you in regard to herself? 

Geo. Burrows— She did not— at least not in a rational manner. 

Serq't Ball.— That is all I have to ask the witness. 

[Seats himself. 

Dr. Deane — The witness can retire. ["Witness retires.] Call 
the next witness. 

Court Crier— Sir Charles Mordaunt ! 

[Commotion among spectators. Sir Charles rises; appears down- 
cast as he proceeds to witness box, and is sworn.] 

Dr. Deane [To witness] — Have you ever heard Lady Mordaunt 
speak of any male friends ? 

Sir Chas. — I have heard her speak of Capt. Farquhar, Lord Cole 
and Sir Frederick Johnstone, as friends of her own. 

Dr. Deane — Had you any acquaintance with these gentlemen? 

Sir Chas. — I was well acquainted with Lord Cole and Sir Frede- 
rick, and slightly with Capt. Farquhar. 

Dr. Deane — Were you acquainted with the Prince of Wales ? 

Sir Chas. — I was; and I was also aware that the Prince of "Wales 
was acquainted with my wife. But he never came to my house at 
my invitation. • I warned my wife against continuing the acquaint- 
ance with His Eoyal Highness, for reasons which governed my own 
mind. I told her I had heard in various quarters certain circum- 
stances connected with the Prince's character, which caused me to 
make that remark. 

Serq't Ball. [Rising] — Supposing the Prince of Wales visited 
your house during your absence in Parliament and elsewhere; were 
you aware of the fact? 

Sir Chas.— No; I knew from no source at that time of the fre- 
quent visits he paid. 

Serg't Ball. — I have no further questions to ask. 

[Seats himself. 

Dr. Deane — It is understood that you found letters in your wife's 
desk, written by the Prince. Are you willing, and can you produce 
those letters before the Court ? 

Sir Chas. — I found a number of letters from the Prince, with 
some flowers and verses, in an envelope. They were all together, 
in a locked desk, in Lady Mordaunt's boudoir. The Prince's letters 
were in one envelope, with what may be termed a valentine; noth- 
ing else being in it. Here they are. [Takes them from his pocket.] 
The Court is welcome to bear them read; in fact, such was my in- 
tention before appearing here. 






FAST LIFE AMONG THE ENGLISH NOBILITY. 25 

Dr. Deane [Advances, and takes letters; returns to position] — 
If it please the Honorable Judge, I will proceed to read such of 
these letters as may be of most interest to the Court. 

[Proceeds to get the letters ready. 

Lord Penz. — Read them. 

Dr. Deane [Opens letter]— Dated November 1st, at White's: — 

My Dear Lady Mordaunt : Many thanks for your kind letter which 
I received this morning. I cannot tell you at this moment the exact 
height of the ponies in question, but I think they are just under 
fourteen hands; but as soon as I know for certain, I will let you 
know. It is quite an age since 1 have seen you. I hope soon to 
have the pleasure of meeting you. 

Yours, most sincerely, 

Albert Edward. 

[Lays down letter, and Cakes up another. Reads :] 

Sandingham, King's Stnn., Dec. 5. 
My Dear Lady Mordaunt : Many thanks for your letter which I 
received this evening; and I am very glad to hear you like the 
ponies. I hope they will be well driven before you attempt to drive 
them, as I know they are fresh. I am very sorry to hear that you 
have been sick, but hope that you are now well again. 
Ever yours, very sincerely, 

Albert Edward. 

[Lays down letter, and takas up another. Reads :] 

Sunday, (No date.) 
My Dear Lady Mordaunt: I cannot tell you how distressed I am 
to hear you have the measles, and that I shall, in consequence, not 
have the pleasure of seeing you. I have had the measles myself a 
long time ago, and I know what a tiresome complaint it is. I trust 
you will take care of yourself, and have a good doctor. Wishing 
you a speedy recovery, I am yours, most sincerely, 

Albert Edward. 

Dr. Deane — [After reading the third letter, folds them all up 
together] — The letters I have just read seem to be the most impor- 
tant. 

Sir Charles— There was also a handkerchief of the Princes' 
found loose in the desk. [Produces it; commotion among specta- 
tors.] After finding these articles I had no further communication 
with my wife but what I deemed absolutely necessary. 

Dr. Deane— I have no further questions to ask; the witness may 
retire. [Sir C. retires.] I understand his Royal Highness has sig- 
nified his willingness to be questioned by this Court. If so, will he 
oblige me by taking the stand? 

[The Prince rises with great dignity and takes place in witness 
box. Is sworn by Crier. 



\ 



26 LADY MORDAtfNT; OR, 

Lord Penzance — Before Dr. Deane asks his Royal Highness any 
questions, it is my duty to point out to his Roypxl Highness. his po- 
sition under the act of Parliament passed last session. It provides 
that no witness in any proceeding, whether a party to the suit or 
not, shall be liable to be asked, or bound to answer, any question 
tending to criminate their honor. Now, from the course which the 
case has taken I think it right to point this out to his Royal High- 
ness, and to tell him that he is not bound or required by law to 
submit to any interrogation on that subject. 

Prince — I prefer to answer. 

Dr. Deane — I believe your Royal Highness has for some time 
been acquainted with the Moncrieffe family ? 

Prince— I have. 

Dr. Deane— Were you acquainted with Lady Mordaunt before 
her marriage? 

Prince — I was. 

Dr. Deane — On her marriage, did your Royal Highness write to 
her and make her some wedding presents ? 

Prince— I did. 

Dr. Deane — Were you acquainted with Sir Charles Mordaunt ? 

Prince — I was. 

Dr. Deane— I have heard that your Royal Highness often uses 
hansom cabs. Is it so ? 

Prince— It is so; very often. 

Dr. Deane — I have only one more question to ask your Royal 
Highness. Has there ever been anything like familiarity on your 
part toward Lady Mordaunt? 

Prince — [draws himself up haughtily]— There has not! 

[Commotion among spectators, and applause, which is sup- 
pressed by Lord Penzance, who rises and in a loud tone:] 
"Silence ! " [Spectators stop. Dr. Deane seats himself.] 

Serg't Ballantine — [rises] — I have no question to ask His Royal 
Highness. [Seats himself. 

[The Prince bows to Lord Penzance, and retires, amidst ^another 
attempt at applause, which, as before, is promptly suppressed by 
Lord Penzance.] 

Serg't Ballantine — [rises and addresses Jury] — Gentlemen, we 
have now arrived at the termination of a case which has been most 
truly described as an exceedingly painful one. There has been a 
distinguished medical gentleman who gave testimony to rebut the 
statements which Sir Charles Mordaunt had himself made. But 
why was not Lady Moncrieffe brought forward ? This lady would 
have been the most important witness. One who knew her daugh- 
ter's habits, and had a knowledge as how she had grown up from 
childhood; knowing, also, the whole of her peculiarities. Assuredly 
there was a reason why she was not brought forward, and the jury 
would weigh it well. Why was not Miss Blanche Moncreiffe 
called? — a sister who knew as much of the state of Lady Mordaunt's 
mind, probably, as her mother. I will tell you why: The sort of 



FAST LIFE AMONG THE ENGLISH NOBILITY. 27 

cross-examination she would have suffered at my bands was doubt- 
less anticipated. And why was not Lord Cole called ? Did it not 
show that bis learned friend, Dr. Deane, was afraid to do so? The 
jury will draw their own conclusions from tbis defect and put it 
together with the others I have pointed out. I can picture the old 
house in the country, where so much happiness bad at one time 
existed; and what is it now? Sir Charles Mordaunt has gone through 
a bitter time of it. He has been slandered, and most foully 
wronged. I trust, gentlemen, you will be guided by your own honest 
hearts in the verdict you will be called upon to give, and come to a 
true and impartial decision. [Seats himself, 

Dr. Deane — [rising and addressing jury] — Gentlemen, you have 
just heard the argument of my learned friend, and undoubtedly will 
weigh well his words. But, geutlemen, the testimony of the witnesses 
who have given their opinion as to Lady Mordaunt 's insanity will ho 
doubt be received by you as a fair criterion, as if ten thousand Lady 
Moncrieffes or sisters had been called upon to testify. Mrs. Cadogan 
is well known to you as a lady of the greatest respectability, and her 
judgment can be taken, as well as the i est which could i e procured, 
and it would be absurd, gentlemen, to break or try to break down the 
testimony of the family physician of Sir Charles Mordaunt. Had Sir 
Charles treated Lady Mordaunt as a sane person, would a sane worn n, 
brought up as Lady Mordaunt had been, behaved in the manner which 
has been testified to in this Court? Lady Mordaunt, if she were not 
insane, might have been elected to have been put into the witness box, 
and she might then have brought, a number of charges against her 
husband, and many excuses could have been possibly given, if her con- 
duct throughout had been as was represented. Gentlemen, you should, 
not, in endeavoring to free the husband, forget, also, the high position 
of Lady Mordaunt's family. It is as high in the social scale as that of 
her husband. If you forget this you inflict an irreparable injury upon 
the wife; and, gentlemen. I trust that you g will most solemnly consider 
your verdict before arriving at a conclusion. [Seats himself. 

Lord Penzance — [rising]— The questions to be left to the jury 
are whet er Lady Mordaunt was able to instruct a solicitor, and sec- 
ondly, whether Lady Mordaunt, admitting that she is insane now, at 
what time did she cease to be incapable to give instructions for her 
defense. I trust, before you come to a decision, you wnll give it the 
same considera ion and deliberation that you appear to have 
done throughout this protracted case; and I have no doubt that you 
will arrive at a just con lusion. There are people who lament that 
such a case should come into court, and there are others who gloat 
with satisfaction at anything which may cause a sensation. There is 
not a day passes which does not furnish some case of immorality, but 
surely those who stand in high places should not be exempted from 
publicity more than others. With reference to the Prince of Wales, 
there was no doubt that Lady Mordaunt was ambitious to correspond 
with so august a person. The letters that had been written by the 
Prince were read to the Court, and there was certainly not much in 



28 LADY MORDAUNT; OR, 

them, and this matter had better be set aside. The real question in 
the case was as to the insanity or not of Lady Mordaunt. Gentlemen 
you will now retire, and return with your verdict. 

[Jury look toward each other; apparently speak to each other.] 

Foreman — [rising] — My Lord, we have already decided in the 
case, and find the defendant, Lady Mordaunt, insane. 

Lord Penzance — The jury have returned their verdict and find 
the defendant, Lady Mordaunt, to be insane. Therefore, Sir Charles 
Mordaunt, it is not in the power of this Court to grant you a divorce. 
Whatever your own feelings may be in this matter, rest assured I fully 
sympathize with you in your bereavement. The proceedings of this 
case are hereby closed, and the court will now adjourn. 

[Spectators move off as scene closes. 



ACT III.— Scene II. 

Street in London. Enter Sir C. and Sir B. from L-, arm in arm. 
They stop at Center. Sir Charles looks disconsolate and despon- 
ent. 

Sir B. — Come, Mordaunt, don't be downcast! 'Tis hard, I know, 
to bear this great misfortune, but those who know you respect and; 
honor your manliness. 

Sir C. — 'Tis well, Barrington, to say be manly. And this is justice 
in an English Court ! In order to exculpate his Royal Highness they 
refuse to grant me a divorce, and I, who have suffered such pangs of 
dishonor and humiliation, must remain legally bound to that guilty 
woman. I see it all; I see it all : So that that the next King of Eng- 
land may not be aspersed, I, Sir Charles Mordaunt, must live and 
suffer. [Bows head in hand.] 

Sir B. — [laying hand on Sir C.'s shoulder] — The world, dear Mor- 
daunt, judges the same as you— but only inwardly. He who is dis- 
liked the most is often sought and fawned upon — that is, if he has but 
power. But come, Mordaunt, let us return home. [Sir B. prepares 
to move.] A good night's rest after this excitement will benefit you 
much. 

[Sir C. moves off with him as exit, R. 

Sir C. — Home ! — a sweet word, Barrington, but now a bitter one 
to me ! 

[As Sir C. and Sir B. exit voices heard within, R. Sir Frederick 
and Lord Cole.] Ha, ha, ha! capital! [enter arm in arm, R.] capi- 
tal ! [Stop Center.] 

Sir Fred. — I say, Vincent, poor Mordaunt looked as disconsolate 
as a goose shedding her feathers ! 

Lord Cole — Yes, I guess the poor devil little throught the case 
would go against him so easily. Bye the bye, don't you think his 
Royal Highness carried himself well 1 



PAST LIFE AMONG THE ENGLISH NOBILITY. 29 

Sir Fred. — Oh, leave him alone for that ! — he knows well enough 
how to play his cards'! 

Lord Cole — Egad ! it's a lucky job for us we were not called 
upon; eh, Johnstone ? [Pokes him.] 

Sir Fred. — Decidedly so — especially in your case. If the loving 
epistles you penned from time to time had been read before Pen- 
zance, it would probably have put the matter in a different light. 
But Lady Harriet has escaped, so I do not care much, after all. 

Lord Cole — My sentiments, precisely. I suppose Mordaunt will 
blow his brains out, or hang himself. I thought at one time I should 
be the recipient of a challenge from him, but I guess he has altered 
his mind. 

Sir Fred. — I should not be at all surprised if his friend Bunsby 
brought us a piece ot pasteboard before many days have passed. 
His ideas of wounded honor run very much in the same vein as 
Mordaunt's. 

Lord Cole — Well^well, if he does we will have to act as targets, 
for it won't do to show the white feathei — though Mordaunt is a 
dead shot. 

Sir Fred. — Perhaps, Cole, it would not come amiss if we gave 
part of our attention to pistol practice. But come, [takes Lord C's 
arm] Vincent, I am as hungry as a bear after sitting in that court 
room. Let us be moving. [They move off.] 

Lord Cole — I'm with you — it has given me an appetite also. 

[Exit, L. 



ACT HL-Scene III. 

Boom in Sir Charles Mord aunt's house. Lady Moncrieffe dis- 
covered at table, handkerchief to face, in sorrowful reflection, ap- 
parently. 

[Enter Lady Mordaunt, who stands near entrance M. D., looks at 
Lady Mon., then steps back and looks off to Eight, as if looking 
for messenger.] 

Lady Mordaunt — Will he never come? Oh, this agonizing sus- 
pense ! It is terrible, terrible >. [Advances toward Lady Mon.} 
Would that I could summon courage to tell my mother. I feel in 
my heart that she, above all others, has suffered the most ! [Starts 
forward] Mother! [Lady Moncrieffe turns suddenly and looks 
wonderingly at Lady Mordaunt. Lady Mordaunt throws herself 
before her mother.] Mother, can you forgive your daughter ? 

Lady Mon. — [Rising; also, Lady Mordaunt from her knees.} 
Harriet, daughter, what means this? Do you know your mother? 
Oh, Heaven ! I thank thee if she does ! 

Lady Mordaunt — Know you, mother! I have always known 
you, and if alone I had met you on your arrival here, I would have then 
confessed all, but the terrible part I had assumed I did not dare be* 
tray before my father — it would have frustrated my designs, and 
then all would have been lost. 



\ I 



30 LADY MORDAUNT. 

Lady Mon. — I do not understand you, Harriet. 

Lady Mo rd aunt — Listen, mother, and you .will understand: 
Some time before Sir Charles had notified me that.it was his inten- 
tiou to petition for a divorce, my conduct at times had been some- * 
what strange. Why it was so Ilrnow not, but nevertheless, among 
those who knew me best, I was pronounced insane — though my 
mind then was as clear as it is now. When alone in Sir Charles' 
presence I did not feign insanity, for I knew full well that he was 
aware mv mind was not affected. ■_ But before all others, and even 
you, my mother, I carried out my role as an insane woman. My 
pur-pose for this was to defeat the case against me in court. Even 
my family physician was iu my confidence, and promised his testi- 
mony in my favor. If I am freed from this, believe me, mother, I 
will never sin again. [Bows head -in .hands. ] 

Lady Mon. — [Laying hand on Lady Mord aunt's shoulder, and 
drawing her toward her] — Harriet, though you have committed this 
great wrong, I caunot forget that I am your mother, and I forgive 
yon. 

[Messenger appears at M. D , hat in left hand, a letter in right,] 
A letter lor Lady Mordaunt. [When she takes it he goes off ] 

Lady Mordaunt— [Springs forward, snatches it from him 
hurriedly, and tremblingly opens it, glances quickly at writing, 
drops letter and rushes back to Lady MoDcrieffe.] — Saved ! mother, 
saved ! [ Drops on her knees before Lady Moncrieffe, who places 
her hand on Lady Mordaunt's heid, looks upward.] 

Lady Mon. — Oh, Harriet, be thankful for this! and remember you 
have a mother who will watch and pray for your good resolution. 

Lady Mordaunt — Mother, I will! 



[Curiam falls. End of Play,'} 



n 



LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 




